Put yourself and your breast health first
7 tips to lower your breast cancer risk
You do so much for the people you love. Now is a good time to do something nice for yourself and your breast health. Our Carelon Health experts share healthy habits that can help you lower your breast cancer risk.
1. Create a healthy plate.
Eat plenty of fresh fruits and veggies, leans meats, and whole grains. Limit processed foods that can be high in sugar and unhealthy fats. Eating a balanced diet can help you stay at a healthy weight and lower your breast cancer risk.
2. Raising your glass? Not so fast.
It’s best to limit how much alcohol you drink. Heavy drinking is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
3. Get a move on every day.
Try to fit at least 30 minutes of exercise into your daily routine. Regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthy body weight and reduce your risk of breast cancer.
4. If you’re a smoker, be a quitter.
Quitting smoking can significantly decrease your chances of developing breast cancer. If you need help quitting, talk with your doctor.
5. Have regular breast health checkups.
Regular mammograms and breast exams performed by your doctor are crucial for early detection. Finding cancer early increases the success rate of treatment. Monthly breast self-exams are important, too. They can help you get to know what’s normal for you and spot any changes.
6. Breastfeed your baby for as long as possible.
If you have a baby, breastfeeding not only benefits your baby but may be good for your breast health, too. Extended breastfeeding is associated with a lower risk of breast cancer.
7. Know your family cancer history.
Some people have a higher risk of breast cancer. Talk to your doctor about your family history of the disease. They can recommend additional testing, if needed.
Take charge of your breast health
Schedule an appointment with a Carelon Health doctor.
Dr. Gregory Whisman, Chief Medical Officer, Carelon Health
Rowena Cole, Nurse Practitioner, Carelon Health
